What is Acupuncture?

by Michelle Sauberzweig

Did you know that Acupuncture is now being used by one third of the world? For the past 3,000 years acupuncture has successfully treated billions of people for many different symptoms, conditions, injuries and diseases.

Why is it so popular? Medicine has always been about treating symptoms and disease. Most of us ignore our bodies until they begin screaming out at us in some sort of pain, numbness, indigestion, insomnia, weakness, fatigue, or any other number of unbearable symptoms. When we can no longer stand it we make an appointment with an MD, take a drug and hope the symptoms magically go away. With the magic comes a plethora of side effects accompanied by the same underlying problem that is now masked by the drug. Most people are no longer looking for a band-aid to put on their problem, but rather a solution to the cause of their problem. With Acupuncture, the concern is not the symptom or the disease. Instead, we focus on determining the underlying cause of the particular problem and restoring the normal balance within the body which is often the original cause of the exacerbated symptoms.

What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is just one branch of Chinese Medicine that promotes natural healing and restores internal balance. Acupuncture consists of the insertion of very fine needles into the body at specific points to support and enhance the body’s ability to heal itself. It is a safe, painless and effective way to alleviate pain, strengthen the immune system and prevent disease.

How does Acupuncture work? Acupuncture is based on a subtle energy system that connects throughout the entire body. The energy known as ‘qi’ flows through distinct meridians and pathways. Disease manifests when there are energy blockages within the body. By using designated points, the meridians are stimulated to create an even flow of qi within the body which sets the stage for the body to repair itself and maintain its own health.

What does an Acupuncture session include? Each session includes an assessment of your current condition, the treatment itself and suggestions on how to stay healthy. The treatment may include additional therapies such as acupressure, moxabustion, cupping, gui sha, dietary therapy and herbal medicine.

For questions or to schedule your appointment, contact Michelle Sauberzweig, L.Ac, with Living Well Acupuncture at (740) 206-8705.